Tension (and opportunity) in Texas:
Feb 20, 2024 21:48:22 GMT -6
Omar Azure (Blue Dragon) likes this
Post by nathan on Feb 20, 2024 21:48:22 GMT -6
NEW Ignite from New Orleans, Louisiana:
Fiona had, for quite some time, wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps as a professional fighter or wrestler. For as long as she could remember, she had dreamed about this very goal. For as long as she could remember, her parents had stymied her efforts, turned her aside, tried to convince her to pursue other pursuits. Her father had allowed her to watch some of his matches from other feds but NEW content had always been strictly off limits to her. She never understood why her parents were so against her choice of profession. Why they had forbidden her to watch her father’s matches in NEW from his older runs in the company.
Tonight, she got her first taste of why. Her father had been in control most of the match. Her mother was never concerned. She was beginning to think that they had oversold the nature of NEW. Then it happened. Her mother took a drink of her water and nodded. “Here it comes.”
Fiona’s eyes were glued on the match. She had never actually seen her father use his patented heart punch…
It was such a small thing. Not at all what she expected. Her father never even seemed to cock or load his fist, his opponent, made one misstep and in the blink of an eye, her father’s fist had buried itself into Brandon’s chest. Fiona had watched all types of fights. Bare knuckle. Taped fist, boxing, MMA, Pro Wrestling. She had never, ever seen a man hit the ground as fast as Brandon did. Scary as that was it wasn’t the most disturbing thing. The most disturbing sight was her father, standing over the body of the man shaking and convulsing in almost a full on seizure after pinning him and making the sign of the cross over the man’s prone body and simply turning his back and making his way backstage as the medics rushed in to treat his opponent.
Tera looked at her daughter. “Hope you enjoyed that. Think you can do that? Hurt a man for no other reason than to make money?” The two left and made their way back to the locker room. As they entered the room, Nathan was seated on the bench, slowly unwrapping the tape from his hands. Fiona walked over and took a look at his hands, the knuckles were red and already swelling. Nathan looked at his daughter and nodded. “It’s jus’ startin’ now. Give it a few hours and then see. Now. Are ye absolutely sure this is the kinda life you want?” Fiona knew her father was hoping she’d say no, or at the very least agree to take some time to think.
But that was not what he got. She looked at him and nodded. “I dinnae even see your heart punch hit! Why dun more fighters use it?” Nathan smirked a bit. “For starters, I do it a bit differently than a lot of wrestlers. But the answer as to why more fighters don’t use it is simple. It’s a very hard move to master. Not only do you need to learn how to use it, you have to use it without killing your opponent. It’s difficult. Maybe someday I’ll go over it with you. But you saw the end of the match. My opponent will be spending the night in the hospital and might be out of action, depending on what all the side effects of tonight are. You really wanna make a living out of this? When you have so much potential for something more? Something better?”
Fiona looks at her father. “Like what? Play football for FIFA, for an organization that thinks the best way to make women’s soccer more popular is shorter shorts? Be a politician? So I spend all day talkin’ outta me arse? Unless you plan on havin’ another kid. I’m the only who can carry on the family tradition.”
Nathan sighs and looks at Tera, who frowns. “One condition. You’re stickin’ with schoolin’. This business is right brutal, and if you get injured, you need something to fall back on.” Fiona squeals in joy and jumps up and down. “Deal!” Tera sighs. “Fine.. then in addition to helpin’ get your father ready, we’ll start training you too.” Fiona runs back and forth, hugging and kissing her parents and runs off to the vending machines to get a drink. Nathan looks at Tera. “I want the record to state that this time, you gave in before I did.” Tera says nothing, just gives Nathan the finger.
Nathan smirks and goes about the post match ritual of taking a shower. Then changing into civilian clothes before the group heads out from the stadium.
Nathan’s Hotel Room, the next day:
New Orleans, Lousisiana
The door connecting Nathan and Tera’s room to Fiona’s hotel room opened and Fiona came running in, “Hey! Wake up! I thought you said you have to get up early as a professional fighter.” Nathan groaned and opened a single eye. “When trainin’ for a fight, aye. But the day or two after a fight.. You sleep in and recover… now what in the name of all that’s holy and sacred on this earth do you want?!”
Fiona holds up her phone to his face. “You’re in Tension in Texas!” Nathan looks at her. “Jesus H. Christ, Mary Joseph and all the saints..If that’s all you came in here to tell me…” Fiona rolls her eyes. “For fuck’s sake, da cannae not read plain fuckin’ English?!” Nathan’s hand shot out and gave his errant daughter a quick, light slap against the mouth. “Watch that mouth, lass. Secondly. I’m half asleep I see a blur of light in front of me damn eyes keepin’ me awake.”
Fiona sighs. “You’re in a 5 way match. Winner gets a title shot at any belt they want!” Nathan sat up in his bed, suddenly awake. “Who am I fightin?” Fiona checks her phone. “Rylee Ruin, Scotty Adams, Omar Azure and Abbigail Dresden.”
Nathan sighs and leans back against the headboard and nods. “Dresden. That’s Valora’s pupil.” Fiona nods. “A year younger than me and fightin’ in her first pay per view. And who got to fight the owner of the company and the world champ!”
Nathan sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose. “Aye and she’s damn lucky she dinnae get royally hurt. When Jesse came to the pub to sign me, that was Jesse Styles the Businessman. The owner of NEW. Jesse Styles used to be a Pro Wrestler. He ain’t a slouch in that ring. Johnny Stylez is a man utterly without morals. If he thought it would give him an edge over Valora, he’d kidnap Abbigail and have her working at his company o whores to use as leverage. That is the depths to which that man does not give a fuck about anything save his own self-interest.”
Fiona shrugs. “Are you saying she shouldn’t be fightin?” Nathan shrugs. “She seems to have a solid base, her big weakness is inexperience which there’s only one way to get around that.” He thinks for a moment, and gets out of bed, moving to get his clothes on as at the moment he is wearing nothing but the boxers he wore to bed.
A short while later, Tera and Nathan are drinking coffee and are sitting with Fiona watching the main event. Tera watches Abbigail and Valora in the ring together and she shakes her head. “They move so similar.” Nathan says nothing, scratching his chin. Tera looks over at him and raises an eyebrow. “Whatcha thinking?” Nathan leans back in his chair and Fiona turns to him. “Yeah, what are we lookin at?” Nathan nods. “I’m asking myself why a woman who hates white Europeans with a intensity bordering on racism takes a Welsh girl under her wing?”
Fiona shrugs. “Cause the Welsh have been on the receiving end of a Union Jack colored dildo up the arse without the benefit of KY?” Nathan and Tera both look at their daughter who gives them the Aubrey Plaza look and shrugs. “The internet is a thing.” Nathan sighs. “The internet. Both a miracle and the 11th plague upon mankind.” Nathan says before shrugging. “Still. Crude as the metaphor is, it isn’t wrong.” Tera adds in. “And the Scottish and us Irish have just as long a list of complaints.” Nathan nods. “And it doesn’t explain why Valora would care. I doubt she knows anything about Welsh history, or British and Irish history either.” Fiona tilts her head. “So, why do you think she’s training her. Also, why does she hate white people so much?”
Nathan sighs. “Institutionalized racism in the United States. Los Angeles was red lined all to hell. Blacks and Hispanics were deliberately crammed into a small area, with the intent of causing violence. When it happened, the city planners wrote Blacks and Hispanics off as ‘criminal elements’ and the police were allowed and even encouraged to be brutal in their crackdowns. Valora has had the deck stacked against her, her entire life and somehow came out on top. I can admire her for that.. But the woman has a lot of flaws. Abbigail seems to be different though. A pure soul, so to speak.”
Tera walks over to the two, calmly drinking her coffee. “Since you’re talkin’ about her, might as well begin preparations for the match with her.” Nathan shakes his head. “You know the system. Day after a fight is rest and recovery day. Trainin’ comes later.”
Two days later, 04:00 (4am for those not up on military/European time)
Nathan’s Hotel room w/ attached room for Fiona
Fort Worth, Texas
Nathan stood in the room, looking at his sleeping daughter. He took a moment to appreciate how fast she was growing. Where does the time go? It seemed like just yesterday she was just slightly bigger than a rugby ball and now.. Now she wanted into this world of blood, violence, sex.. Of the very worst of humanity. Bloodthirsty borderline psychotic fans that demanded their modern day gladiators beat each other bloody for their amusement. Was this a punishment for his own sins? To have to watch his daughter immerse herself in this..this world of so much filth?” A wry smile crossed his lips. Time to see how dedicated she was…
Without warning his open hand came crashing down on his daughter’s rear end, a loud smack echoing through the room as his daughter literally jumped up and Nathan barely dodged a flying foot. His daughter hit the bed and bounced off, and got up. “The fuck?!” This got another light tap on the mouth. “Language. You wanted to be a pro fighter. Welcome to the life lassie. Get dressed. Hoodie. Jogging pants. Comfortable running shoes.” She sighs. “I need a shower.” Nathan shakes his head. “Running now. Shower after. Get dressed.”
A short time later a still half asleep Fiona stumbled out of the hotel room and saw Nathan stretching and she blinked. “What are you doing?” Nathan looks at his daughter and blinks in surprise. “Stretch. Loosen the muscles up before you go running.” Fiona shrugs and does so, mimicking Nathan’s exercises. “How far we running?” Nathan shrugs. “Least 2 miles.” Fiona looks at him. “What?! We trainin’ for a marathon or something?” Nathan sighs. “You run to build up stamina and endurance so in a long match like I have at the ppv you don’t get tired. You get tired, you get beat.”
Fiona nods. “But da.. I dun have a fight.” Nathan nods. “Never too early to start getting into shape. I am not gonna tell Jesse Styles to activate that clause in your contract until you’re ready.” Fiona grumbled but started her jog alongside her father as they began their early morning run.
As they ran, Fiona watched her father as he moved. He had not been a professional fighter for a good few years and yet, to see him in his routine, one might think he had never left. Every so often as he ran, he threw a punch, or a 2 punch combo, once in a while, a 3 punch combo. As they jogged, they came upon a strip mall. Amongst, the attractions was a small movie theater advertising some movies, including a couple of horror movies. Fiona waved that she needed a break and stopped, to drink water. Nathan walked over and smiled. “Gotta learn to drink while runnin’ lass.” Fiona glared at her father and gestured to the strip mall. “The bloody hell is that shite?” Nathan glanced over, smirked and turned back to his daughter. “Well, if you want me to talk it in terms of my upcoming fight. This strip mall is a perfect metaphor for Rylee Ruin. The beauty salon, clothing stores and other such bull. Selling insecure women shit they don’t need to help them chase an impossible standard of beauty that society says they should meet.”
Nathan shrugs as an idea comes to him. “Get your phone out lass. I feel a promo comin’ on.”
On Camera promo part 1: Rylee ‘look at me please daddy pay attention to me!’ Ruin:
The camera comes on. Nathan is not wearing his priest garb. He is wearing a New Edge Wrestling Hoodie and is clearly dressed for a workout. He glances at the strip mall behind him and then looks at the camera:
“Do you know what your sin is, Rylee? A bit of a loaded question. I’m sure you have so many. Most rich people do. There’s a reason our Lord says it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter Heaven. So let’s take a look at your sins and see if we can find the one that you embody most.”
Nathan shrugs. “First, there’s Sloth. Your father provided you with a rich, cushy life. I’m sure you have wanted for nothing. I find it odd. America tries so hard to be like the Roman Empire, but they pick and choose which things to embody. See, in Rome. Patricians had to prove worthy of their privilege. In ancient Rome, your father earned the Patrician status. But each child of his would have to do something of merit to prove worthy. Not in America. You can just sit, enjoy the money.”
Nathan looks back at the strip mall. “Gluttony is another one. Daddy I want a new expensive car. Daddy I want a house Daddy I want, I want I want.” How many sentences in your life started with those words? Or perhaps.. Envy is your sin. Aye.. I think Envy is the sin. Let’s face facts luv.. You are not beautiful as American culture defines it. What’s the matter? Did the beauty salon tell you you would never be pretty enough? Well that’s bad. If you’re not pretty enough, your da cannae marry you off can he? So, you try to be a fighter. A few MMA titles..”
Nathan claps slowly. “Well done, you. But it dinnae get daddy’s notice, did it? No. And your path in MMA and Pro Wrestling is stifled by your very small build and frame. But you keep trying. And, when you found you weren’t pretty enough to get attention. When you found you weren’t a good enough fighter to get attention, you started the multiple personality shite to get attention and congrats. You finally got attention. It’s negative attention of course, at best, you get pity and at worst you get criticized for your acts which you conveniently pass off on someone else.. Might as well claim the devil made ya do it.”
Nathan narrows his eyes. “You’re not a monster. You don’t have anyone in your head but you, luv. You’re just a spoiled brat, a 30 something year old spoiled brat who has never had even a day of true hardship in her entire bloody life.. But at Tension in Texas luv.. You will know hardship. You’re surrounded by people who dunnae pity you. Aren’t going to tsk tsk you. You think Jesse did you a favor. What he did luv, was sign your death warrant.”
Nathan makes the sign of the cross. “in nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti’ I wonder who you will blame this time when you fail. I would begin by looking in the mirror, but that requires the integrity of an adult.”
The on camera portion of the promo ends for now and the two begin running once more. Fiona resumed the run with a groan. As they run, she looks to her father. “You know, Da. We could get a treadmill. Run on that, they even have ones that can change incline and you can use videos to simulate running in different places.” Nathan looks at his daughter. “Were you not listening to what I said about Rylee? Why spend money on a contraption when you can go outside and run for free?”
As they continue, they come across a local high school. Nathan sighs. “Bloody hell.. This is gonna take all day at this rate..”
On Camera promo Part 2: Abbigail Dresden
The camera is turned on once again and Nathan is standing, the school behind him as he sighs. “Part 2. Abbigail Dresden. You’re actually the exact opposite of Rylee. Rylee had everything handed to her. You. You were never truly allowed to be a child. From the age of 9 you’ve been drilled, taught, trained to be a professional athlete. Constantly competing. Drilled into your head. Every day you’re reminded that you’re just one bad workout, one bad day one single mistake away from”
Nathan snaps his fingers.
"Your dream goin up in smoke. I know lass, I went through the youth academy. Played for the Shamrock Rovers as Goalkeeper. Like you, I left football for professional fighting. It’s cruel what they’ve done to you lass. You should have gone to school. Made friends, been allowed to have a bloody childhood.”
Nathan nods. “That being said, you are young and you make the mistakes of youth. Mistakes like insulting the record and accomplishments of Roger Wright. You want to criticize his current lack of effort? Fine target. But to write off his entire career. To use terms like Has-been..”
Nathan shakes his head and sighs. “Kids these days.” Shrugging, Nathan looks around and settles his gaze on the camera. “I suppose then, your sin would appear to be Pride. Given who your birth parents are, I would say you get that from them. You do have a choice though, young Abbigail. You can choose to learn from these slight mistakes to not let your pride overwhelm you as it has your birth parents. Or you can let your pride lead you to ruin, I think you could benefit from this lil’ lecture lass because in your promo you admit to not knowing much about your opponents and then proceed to just write them off.”
Nathan smirks and shakes his head. “It’s alright lass, we were all young and reckless and foolish at one point. Consider this a lesson. Take it to heart and learn from it and grow. Now speakin’ of your promo. You were right about me. I am absolutely a man that needs to be taken seriously. You’re also right in the match is going to be chaotic. I’ll go a step further and say you’re right about one more thing. I am the favorite. Not pride talking. Not me talkin’ out o’ me arse.. Its simple fact. I can end the match with one punch. Or, in this case.. Maybe 4. One for each of you..”
The on camera portion ends and Fiona sticks her tongue out. “I like Abbigail, though.” Nathan smirks. “I dunnae dislike her, she’s making the same mistakes all kids make. Val and I made those same mistakes. It’s a lack of experience. Come on, we’ve wasted enough time.” With that, the two resumed their jogging.
After a bit, they come to a park. On the community board is a note indicating a parade for the Chinese new year. Father Nathan stops and looks at this for a moment. (Admit it, you thought he’d come across a Chinese restaurant or something.) Looking the information post over, he nodded and shrugged. “Okay.”
On Camera promo part 3: Omar Dragon:
The camera comes back into focus and Nathan looks out over the nice sized park they find themselves in. “Omar Dragon. You must be feeling good. After all, it is the year of the Dragon by Chinese reckoning. You must take that as a omen. A sign that providence will favor you. The stars align. Fate is in your corner, ready to give you a shot at any title you choose.”
Nathan shrugs. “I sincerely hope that is not how you feel or else, I’d say you also have a problem with Pride. You’re in good company. I’ve been doing this a long time. A lot of wrestlers have a problem with Pride. Now, I won’t get too much into the religiosity with you. I confess, the note about the Chinese new year parade reminded me of you because of your entrance. You. Your Manager, Your wife. Only thing your parade is missin’ is the long dragon, yeah?”
Nathan sighs and shakes his head. “Never been a fan of having people at ringside. For one, too many wrestlers who cannae win fairly rely on their entourage to help. Even if they dunnae intend to cheat, having people at ringside is giving less honorable wrestlers a target. I believe you’ve learned that lesson personally earlier this pay per view cycle. I sincerely hope your wife is doing better. I also hope you have learned to make sure that non-wrestlers are not in the line of fire, so to speak. I get it. I’m a family man. My wife works as my agent mostly, my teenage daughter whose begun training to enter the business, both came with me to NEW. But both also stay in the stands or in one of the boxes or wherever they are for that event. But the fans aren’t listening to this for a debate on how to handle non-wrestlers.
They want to see us fight. The Chinese martial artist and the Irish boxer. Should be an interesting matchup. But if you are expecting good fortune in the year of the Dragon. I intend to delay the arrival of that.”
The camera goes off once more and Father and daughter resume their jogging. Fiona’s breathing getting heavier as she finds it harder to move fatigue catching up with her and Nathan nods. “This is why running regularly is a good idea. Build up conditioning and stamina.” Fiona glares at Nathan wanting to make a snarky comeback comment but not being sure she has the oxygen to do so and keep running.
The pair continues, having come around about and now making their way back towards the hotel, along one of the other roads. Eventually, another shopping complex comes into view, among the buildings taking up space in it is a Outback steakhouse. Nathan smirks and he and daughter bypass the low hanging fruit once more and finish their run. Coming into their hotel room, Fiona plops face first onto the bed but Nathan laughs a bit. “Up! We’re not done yet. One more promo.” Fiona groans into the couch before pushing herself up. “I hate you.”
]Nathan shrugs. “You wanted this, luv. Not me. Up.” Fiona groans. “I want the fun part of getting in the ring and fightin’!” Tera comes in. “You don’t do the prep work you’ll come into the ring and get your arse kicked and that’s never fun.” Nathan points to Tera and nods. “And the first time you injure someone. Not hurt them, but I mean really, truly injure them. Tell me how fun it is then. If you’re serious about this then get serious. You think you’re sore and uncomfortable now? Wait til the morning after your first fight.”
On-Camera promo part 4: What’s his name again?!
The camera comes on as Nathan stands in the hotel room. “Hmm.. I think I covered everyone, but I cannae help but think I forgot somethin’.” Fiona’s voice chimes in. “You forgot one of your competitors, da!” Nathan uses a finger to keep count, adding a finger every time he mentions a name. “Let’s see. Rylee. Abbigail. Omar..” Fiona’s voice chimes in again. “It’s a 5 way match, da.. Them and you make 4. You did take maths aye?” Nathan rolls his eyes. “Dunnae be gettin’ smart with me, missy. I’m the one who taught you maths!” Nathan paces back and forth. “Who am I forgettin’ Samson? No. Samuel? No.” Fiona giggles and gets in on this. “Seth Iser?” Nathan laughs. “Ha! Seth Iser.. oh aye there’s a name that brings back memories, but nope.. I think he’s scheduled to beat Al Sno..I mean Al Envy into retirement. Wait! Sotty! No, Scotty! AYE! Scotty. Like the Star Trek Scotty only Aussie and ten times more boring. You know Aussies. Fun lot.. Here’s a fun history fact lads and ;lasses.. Did you Know… Australia went to war against the Emu. A giant Ostrich like bird… and lost?! It’s a true fact.”
Fiona chimes in. “Wikipedia that, google that. Youtube Oversimplified that!” Nathan shrugs. “Whatever she said for the tech savvy types. Now, ya might be askin’ yourself. “Nate.. isn’t a low blow, goin’ after a man’s country?” Nathan shrugs and nods. “I say it might be, if the Australian country did not spend so much time, effort and resources into tryin’ to craft this image of Aussie men as the ultimate badass. Also, Scotty Adams the man is so borin’ that his nationality is all I really got. Every match like that this has at least one whipping boy in it. Scotty.. I hate to tell you this.. But you’re the whipping boy. Even the 17 year old Welsh lass is a better fighter than you.. And she and I are likely the only people in this fight who could find Wales on a freakin’ map!. So.. look on the bright side me boyo. You’re in a no pressure situation. You got no expectations to live up to… and whichever one of us wins.. Will probably pin your arse to the mat to get that win. So thanks in advance for bein’ the human punching bag.”
The camera goes black for the final time and the promo comes, at last, to its conclusion.
Fiona had, for quite some time, wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps as a professional fighter or wrestler. For as long as she could remember, she had dreamed about this very goal. For as long as she could remember, her parents had stymied her efforts, turned her aside, tried to convince her to pursue other pursuits. Her father had allowed her to watch some of his matches from other feds but NEW content had always been strictly off limits to her. She never understood why her parents were so against her choice of profession. Why they had forbidden her to watch her father’s matches in NEW from his older runs in the company.
Tonight, she got her first taste of why. Her father had been in control most of the match. Her mother was never concerned. She was beginning to think that they had oversold the nature of NEW. Then it happened. Her mother took a drink of her water and nodded. “Here it comes.”
Fiona’s eyes were glued on the match. She had never actually seen her father use his patented heart punch…
It was such a small thing. Not at all what she expected. Her father never even seemed to cock or load his fist, his opponent, made one misstep and in the blink of an eye, her father’s fist had buried itself into Brandon’s chest. Fiona had watched all types of fights. Bare knuckle. Taped fist, boxing, MMA, Pro Wrestling. She had never, ever seen a man hit the ground as fast as Brandon did. Scary as that was it wasn’t the most disturbing thing. The most disturbing sight was her father, standing over the body of the man shaking and convulsing in almost a full on seizure after pinning him and making the sign of the cross over the man’s prone body and simply turning his back and making his way backstage as the medics rushed in to treat his opponent.
Tera looked at her daughter. “Hope you enjoyed that. Think you can do that? Hurt a man for no other reason than to make money?” The two left and made their way back to the locker room. As they entered the room, Nathan was seated on the bench, slowly unwrapping the tape from his hands. Fiona walked over and took a look at his hands, the knuckles were red and already swelling. Nathan looked at his daughter and nodded. “It’s jus’ startin’ now. Give it a few hours and then see. Now. Are ye absolutely sure this is the kinda life you want?” Fiona knew her father was hoping she’d say no, or at the very least agree to take some time to think.
But that was not what he got. She looked at him and nodded. “I dinnae even see your heart punch hit! Why dun more fighters use it?” Nathan smirked a bit. “For starters, I do it a bit differently than a lot of wrestlers. But the answer as to why more fighters don’t use it is simple. It’s a very hard move to master. Not only do you need to learn how to use it, you have to use it without killing your opponent. It’s difficult. Maybe someday I’ll go over it with you. But you saw the end of the match. My opponent will be spending the night in the hospital and might be out of action, depending on what all the side effects of tonight are. You really wanna make a living out of this? When you have so much potential for something more? Something better?”
Fiona looks at her father. “Like what? Play football for FIFA, for an organization that thinks the best way to make women’s soccer more popular is shorter shorts? Be a politician? So I spend all day talkin’ outta me arse? Unless you plan on havin’ another kid. I’m the only who can carry on the family tradition.”
Nathan sighs and looks at Tera, who frowns. “One condition. You’re stickin’ with schoolin’. This business is right brutal, and if you get injured, you need something to fall back on.” Fiona squeals in joy and jumps up and down. “Deal!” Tera sighs. “Fine.. then in addition to helpin’ get your father ready, we’ll start training you too.” Fiona runs back and forth, hugging and kissing her parents and runs off to the vending machines to get a drink. Nathan looks at Tera. “I want the record to state that this time, you gave in before I did.” Tera says nothing, just gives Nathan the finger.
Nathan smirks and goes about the post match ritual of taking a shower. Then changing into civilian clothes before the group heads out from the stadium.
Nathan’s Hotel Room, the next day:
New Orleans, Lousisiana
The door connecting Nathan and Tera’s room to Fiona’s hotel room opened and Fiona came running in, “Hey! Wake up! I thought you said you have to get up early as a professional fighter.” Nathan groaned and opened a single eye. “When trainin’ for a fight, aye. But the day or two after a fight.. You sleep in and recover… now what in the name of all that’s holy and sacred on this earth do you want?!”
Fiona holds up her phone to his face. “You’re in Tension in Texas!” Nathan looks at her. “Jesus H. Christ, Mary Joseph and all the saints..If that’s all you came in here to tell me…” Fiona rolls her eyes. “For fuck’s sake, da cannae not read plain fuckin’ English?!” Nathan’s hand shot out and gave his errant daughter a quick, light slap against the mouth. “Watch that mouth, lass. Secondly. I’m half asleep I see a blur of light in front of me damn eyes keepin’ me awake.”
Fiona sighs. “You’re in a 5 way match. Winner gets a title shot at any belt they want!” Nathan sat up in his bed, suddenly awake. “Who am I fightin?” Fiona checks her phone. “Rylee Ruin, Scotty Adams, Omar Azure and Abbigail Dresden.”
Nathan sighs and leans back against the headboard and nods. “Dresden. That’s Valora’s pupil.” Fiona nods. “A year younger than me and fightin’ in her first pay per view. And who got to fight the owner of the company and the world champ!”
Nathan sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose. “Aye and she’s damn lucky she dinnae get royally hurt. When Jesse came to the pub to sign me, that was Jesse Styles the Businessman. The owner of NEW. Jesse Styles used to be a Pro Wrestler. He ain’t a slouch in that ring. Johnny Stylez is a man utterly without morals. If he thought it would give him an edge over Valora, he’d kidnap Abbigail and have her working at his company o whores to use as leverage. That is the depths to which that man does not give a fuck about anything save his own self-interest.”
Fiona shrugs. “Are you saying she shouldn’t be fightin?” Nathan shrugs. “She seems to have a solid base, her big weakness is inexperience which there’s only one way to get around that.” He thinks for a moment, and gets out of bed, moving to get his clothes on as at the moment he is wearing nothing but the boxers he wore to bed.
A short while later, Tera and Nathan are drinking coffee and are sitting with Fiona watching the main event. Tera watches Abbigail and Valora in the ring together and she shakes her head. “They move so similar.” Nathan says nothing, scratching his chin. Tera looks over at him and raises an eyebrow. “Whatcha thinking?” Nathan leans back in his chair and Fiona turns to him. “Yeah, what are we lookin at?” Nathan nods. “I’m asking myself why a woman who hates white Europeans with a intensity bordering on racism takes a Welsh girl under her wing?”
Fiona shrugs. “Cause the Welsh have been on the receiving end of a Union Jack colored dildo up the arse without the benefit of KY?” Nathan and Tera both look at their daughter who gives them the Aubrey Plaza look and shrugs. “The internet is a thing.” Nathan sighs. “The internet. Both a miracle and the 11th plague upon mankind.” Nathan says before shrugging. “Still. Crude as the metaphor is, it isn’t wrong.” Tera adds in. “And the Scottish and us Irish have just as long a list of complaints.” Nathan nods. “And it doesn’t explain why Valora would care. I doubt she knows anything about Welsh history, or British and Irish history either.” Fiona tilts her head. “So, why do you think she’s training her. Also, why does she hate white people so much?”
Nathan sighs. “Institutionalized racism in the United States. Los Angeles was red lined all to hell. Blacks and Hispanics were deliberately crammed into a small area, with the intent of causing violence. When it happened, the city planners wrote Blacks and Hispanics off as ‘criminal elements’ and the police were allowed and even encouraged to be brutal in their crackdowns. Valora has had the deck stacked against her, her entire life and somehow came out on top. I can admire her for that.. But the woman has a lot of flaws. Abbigail seems to be different though. A pure soul, so to speak.”
Tera walks over to the two, calmly drinking her coffee. “Since you’re talkin’ about her, might as well begin preparations for the match with her.” Nathan shakes his head. “You know the system. Day after a fight is rest and recovery day. Trainin’ comes later.”
Two days later, 04:00 (4am for those not up on military/European time)
Nathan’s Hotel room w/ attached room for Fiona
Fort Worth, Texas
Nathan stood in the room, looking at his sleeping daughter. He took a moment to appreciate how fast she was growing. Where does the time go? It seemed like just yesterday she was just slightly bigger than a rugby ball and now.. Now she wanted into this world of blood, violence, sex.. Of the very worst of humanity. Bloodthirsty borderline psychotic fans that demanded their modern day gladiators beat each other bloody for their amusement. Was this a punishment for his own sins? To have to watch his daughter immerse herself in this..this world of so much filth?” A wry smile crossed his lips. Time to see how dedicated she was…
Without warning his open hand came crashing down on his daughter’s rear end, a loud smack echoing through the room as his daughter literally jumped up and Nathan barely dodged a flying foot. His daughter hit the bed and bounced off, and got up. “The fuck?!” This got another light tap on the mouth. “Language. You wanted to be a pro fighter. Welcome to the life lassie. Get dressed. Hoodie. Jogging pants. Comfortable running shoes.” She sighs. “I need a shower.” Nathan shakes his head. “Running now. Shower after. Get dressed.”
A short time later a still half asleep Fiona stumbled out of the hotel room and saw Nathan stretching and she blinked. “What are you doing?” Nathan looks at his daughter and blinks in surprise. “Stretch. Loosen the muscles up before you go running.” Fiona shrugs and does so, mimicking Nathan’s exercises. “How far we running?” Nathan shrugs. “Least 2 miles.” Fiona looks at him. “What?! We trainin’ for a marathon or something?” Nathan sighs. “You run to build up stamina and endurance so in a long match like I have at the ppv you don’t get tired. You get tired, you get beat.”
Fiona nods. “But da.. I dun have a fight.” Nathan nods. “Never too early to start getting into shape. I am not gonna tell Jesse Styles to activate that clause in your contract until you’re ready.” Fiona grumbled but started her jog alongside her father as they began their early morning run.
As they ran, Fiona watched her father as he moved. He had not been a professional fighter for a good few years and yet, to see him in his routine, one might think he had never left. Every so often as he ran, he threw a punch, or a 2 punch combo, once in a while, a 3 punch combo. As they jogged, they came upon a strip mall. Amongst, the attractions was a small movie theater advertising some movies, including a couple of horror movies. Fiona waved that she needed a break and stopped, to drink water. Nathan walked over and smiled. “Gotta learn to drink while runnin’ lass.” Fiona glared at her father and gestured to the strip mall. “The bloody hell is that shite?” Nathan glanced over, smirked and turned back to his daughter. “Well, if you want me to talk it in terms of my upcoming fight. This strip mall is a perfect metaphor for Rylee Ruin. The beauty salon, clothing stores and other such bull. Selling insecure women shit they don’t need to help them chase an impossible standard of beauty that society says they should meet.”
Nathan shrugs as an idea comes to him. “Get your phone out lass. I feel a promo comin’ on.”
On Camera promo part 1: Rylee ‘look at me please daddy pay attention to me!’ Ruin:
The camera comes on. Nathan is not wearing his priest garb. He is wearing a New Edge Wrestling Hoodie and is clearly dressed for a workout. He glances at the strip mall behind him and then looks at the camera:
“Do you know what your sin is, Rylee? A bit of a loaded question. I’m sure you have so many. Most rich people do. There’s a reason our Lord says it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter Heaven. So let’s take a look at your sins and see if we can find the one that you embody most.”
Nathan shrugs. “First, there’s Sloth. Your father provided you with a rich, cushy life. I’m sure you have wanted for nothing. I find it odd. America tries so hard to be like the Roman Empire, but they pick and choose which things to embody. See, in Rome. Patricians had to prove worthy of their privilege. In ancient Rome, your father earned the Patrician status. But each child of his would have to do something of merit to prove worthy. Not in America. You can just sit, enjoy the money.”
Nathan looks back at the strip mall. “Gluttony is another one. Daddy I want a new expensive car. Daddy I want a house Daddy I want, I want I want.” How many sentences in your life started with those words? Or perhaps.. Envy is your sin. Aye.. I think Envy is the sin. Let’s face facts luv.. You are not beautiful as American culture defines it. What’s the matter? Did the beauty salon tell you you would never be pretty enough? Well that’s bad. If you’re not pretty enough, your da cannae marry you off can he? So, you try to be a fighter. A few MMA titles..”
Nathan claps slowly. “Well done, you. But it dinnae get daddy’s notice, did it? No. And your path in MMA and Pro Wrestling is stifled by your very small build and frame. But you keep trying. And, when you found you weren’t pretty enough to get attention. When you found you weren’t a good enough fighter to get attention, you started the multiple personality shite to get attention and congrats. You finally got attention. It’s negative attention of course, at best, you get pity and at worst you get criticized for your acts which you conveniently pass off on someone else.. Might as well claim the devil made ya do it.”
Nathan narrows his eyes. “You’re not a monster. You don’t have anyone in your head but you, luv. You’re just a spoiled brat, a 30 something year old spoiled brat who has never had even a day of true hardship in her entire bloody life.. But at Tension in Texas luv.. You will know hardship. You’re surrounded by people who dunnae pity you. Aren’t going to tsk tsk you. You think Jesse did you a favor. What he did luv, was sign your death warrant.”
Nathan makes the sign of the cross. “in nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti’ I wonder who you will blame this time when you fail. I would begin by looking in the mirror, but that requires the integrity of an adult.”
The on camera portion of the promo ends for now and the two begin running once more. Fiona resumed the run with a groan. As they run, she looks to her father. “You know, Da. We could get a treadmill. Run on that, they even have ones that can change incline and you can use videos to simulate running in different places.” Nathan looks at his daughter. “Were you not listening to what I said about Rylee? Why spend money on a contraption when you can go outside and run for free?”
As they continue, they come across a local high school. Nathan sighs. “Bloody hell.. This is gonna take all day at this rate..”
On Camera promo Part 2: Abbigail Dresden
The camera is turned on once again and Nathan is standing, the school behind him as he sighs. “Part 2. Abbigail Dresden. You’re actually the exact opposite of Rylee. Rylee had everything handed to her. You. You were never truly allowed to be a child. From the age of 9 you’ve been drilled, taught, trained to be a professional athlete. Constantly competing. Drilled into your head. Every day you’re reminded that you’re just one bad workout, one bad day one single mistake away from”
Nathan snaps his fingers.
"Your dream goin up in smoke. I know lass, I went through the youth academy. Played for the Shamrock Rovers as Goalkeeper. Like you, I left football for professional fighting. It’s cruel what they’ve done to you lass. You should have gone to school. Made friends, been allowed to have a bloody childhood.”
Nathan nods. “That being said, you are young and you make the mistakes of youth. Mistakes like insulting the record and accomplishments of Roger Wright. You want to criticize his current lack of effort? Fine target. But to write off his entire career. To use terms like Has-been..”
Nathan shakes his head and sighs. “Kids these days.” Shrugging, Nathan looks around and settles his gaze on the camera. “I suppose then, your sin would appear to be Pride. Given who your birth parents are, I would say you get that from them. You do have a choice though, young Abbigail. You can choose to learn from these slight mistakes to not let your pride overwhelm you as it has your birth parents. Or you can let your pride lead you to ruin, I think you could benefit from this lil’ lecture lass because in your promo you admit to not knowing much about your opponents and then proceed to just write them off.”
Nathan smirks and shakes his head. “It’s alright lass, we were all young and reckless and foolish at one point. Consider this a lesson. Take it to heart and learn from it and grow. Now speakin’ of your promo. You were right about me. I am absolutely a man that needs to be taken seriously. You’re also right in the match is going to be chaotic. I’ll go a step further and say you’re right about one more thing. I am the favorite. Not pride talking. Not me talkin’ out o’ me arse.. Its simple fact. I can end the match with one punch. Or, in this case.. Maybe 4. One for each of you..”
The on camera portion ends and Fiona sticks her tongue out. “I like Abbigail, though.” Nathan smirks. “I dunnae dislike her, she’s making the same mistakes all kids make. Val and I made those same mistakes. It’s a lack of experience. Come on, we’ve wasted enough time.” With that, the two resumed their jogging.
After a bit, they come to a park. On the community board is a note indicating a parade for the Chinese new year. Father Nathan stops and looks at this for a moment. (Admit it, you thought he’d come across a Chinese restaurant or something.) Looking the information post over, he nodded and shrugged. “Okay.”
On Camera promo part 3: Omar Dragon:
The camera comes back into focus and Nathan looks out over the nice sized park they find themselves in. “Omar Dragon. You must be feeling good. After all, it is the year of the Dragon by Chinese reckoning. You must take that as a omen. A sign that providence will favor you. The stars align. Fate is in your corner, ready to give you a shot at any title you choose.”
Nathan shrugs. “I sincerely hope that is not how you feel or else, I’d say you also have a problem with Pride. You’re in good company. I’ve been doing this a long time. A lot of wrestlers have a problem with Pride. Now, I won’t get too much into the religiosity with you. I confess, the note about the Chinese new year parade reminded me of you because of your entrance. You. Your Manager, Your wife. Only thing your parade is missin’ is the long dragon, yeah?”
Nathan sighs and shakes his head. “Never been a fan of having people at ringside. For one, too many wrestlers who cannae win fairly rely on their entourage to help. Even if they dunnae intend to cheat, having people at ringside is giving less honorable wrestlers a target. I believe you’ve learned that lesson personally earlier this pay per view cycle. I sincerely hope your wife is doing better. I also hope you have learned to make sure that non-wrestlers are not in the line of fire, so to speak. I get it. I’m a family man. My wife works as my agent mostly, my teenage daughter whose begun training to enter the business, both came with me to NEW. But both also stay in the stands or in one of the boxes or wherever they are for that event. But the fans aren’t listening to this for a debate on how to handle non-wrestlers.
They want to see us fight. The Chinese martial artist and the Irish boxer. Should be an interesting matchup. But if you are expecting good fortune in the year of the Dragon. I intend to delay the arrival of that.”
The camera goes off once more and Father and daughter resume their jogging. Fiona’s breathing getting heavier as she finds it harder to move fatigue catching up with her and Nathan nods. “This is why running regularly is a good idea. Build up conditioning and stamina.” Fiona glares at Nathan wanting to make a snarky comeback comment but not being sure she has the oxygen to do so and keep running.
The pair continues, having come around about and now making their way back towards the hotel, along one of the other roads. Eventually, another shopping complex comes into view, among the buildings taking up space in it is a Outback steakhouse. Nathan smirks and he and daughter bypass the low hanging fruit once more and finish their run. Coming into their hotel room, Fiona plops face first onto the bed but Nathan laughs a bit. “Up! We’re not done yet. One more promo.” Fiona groans into the couch before pushing herself up. “I hate you.”
]Nathan shrugs. “You wanted this, luv. Not me. Up.” Fiona groans. “I want the fun part of getting in the ring and fightin’!” Tera comes in. “You don’t do the prep work you’ll come into the ring and get your arse kicked and that’s never fun.” Nathan points to Tera and nods. “And the first time you injure someone. Not hurt them, but I mean really, truly injure them. Tell me how fun it is then. If you’re serious about this then get serious. You think you’re sore and uncomfortable now? Wait til the morning after your first fight.”
On-Camera promo part 4: What’s his name again?!
The camera comes on as Nathan stands in the hotel room. “Hmm.. I think I covered everyone, but I cannae help but think I forgot somethin’.” Fiona’s voice chimes in. “You forgot one of your competitors, da!” Nathan uses a finger to keep count, adding a finger every time he mentions a name. “Let’s see. Rylee. Abbigail. Omar..” Fiona’s voice chimes in again. “It’s a 5 way match, da.. Them and you make 4. You did take maths aye?” Nathan rolls his eyes. “Dunnae be gettin’ smart with me, missy. I’m the one who taught you maths!” Nathan paces back and forth. “Who am I forgettin’ Samson? No. Samuel? No.” Fiona giggles and gets in on this. “Seth Iser?” Nathan laughs. “Ha! Seth Iser.. oh aye there’s a name that brings back memories, but nope.. I think he’s scheduled to beat Al Sno..I mean Al Envy into retirement. Wait! Sotty! No, Scotty! AYE! Scotty. Like the Star Trek Scotty only Aussie and ten times more boring. You know Aussies. Fun lot.. Here’s a fun history fact lads and ;lasses.. Did you Know… Australia went to war against the Emu. A giant Ostrich like bird… and lost?! It’s a true fact.”
Fiona chimes in. “Wikipedia that, google that. Youtube Oversimplified that!” Nathan shrugs. “Whatever she said for the tech savvy types. Now, ya might be askin’ yourself. “Nate.. isn’t a low blow, goin’ after a man’s country?” Nathan shrugs and nods. “I say it might be, if the Australian country did not spend so much time, effort and resources into tryin’ to craft this image of Aussie men as the ultimate badass. Also, Scotty Adams the man is so borin’ that his nationality is all I really got. Every match like that this has at least one whipping boy in it. Scotty.. I hate to tell you this.. But you’re the whipping boy. Even the 17 year old Welsh lass is a better fighter than you.. And she and I are likely the only people in this fight who could find Wales on a freakin’ map!. So.. look on the bright side me boyo. You’re in a no pressure situation. You got no expectations to live up to… and whichever one of us wins.. Will probably pin your arse to the mat to get that win. So thanks in advance for bein’ the human punching bag.”
The camera goes black for the final time and the promo comes, at last, to its conclusion.